neighborhoods

Make an Effort to Know Your Neighbors

As the population continues to grow, and technology changes the way we interact, it seems that our neighbors are less “neighborly” than a few decades ago. Sure, times have changed. But, that doesn’t mean we should isolate ourselves. Following are several things you can do to improve the relationship with your neighbors:
* Make an effort to welcome new neighbors when they move in. Whether it’s a friendly note, a plate of cookies or a quick introduction, this gesture gets the relationship started.
* Keep your home and yard well maintained. Most people take pride in their home and you’ll be a better neighbor if you keep yours looking good.
* Be courteous. If you’re throwing a big party, inform your neighbors; better yet, invite them. If you’re doing anything that makes a lot of noise, do it at a time least likely to disturb them.
* Be helpful. If you have a neighbor that needs help raking, taking out the trash, or carrying groceries into the house, offer to give them a hand.
* Repair anything your family breaks (pets included), or pay to have it fixed as soon as possible.
* Return anything you borrow the same day if possible.
* If you have neighbors that own or operate a business, frequent their establishment and become a customer.
* Take an active role in any issues affecting your community and chip in when it’s time to help.
* Offer to watch your neighbors’s pet, water their plants, or collect their mail when they go out of town.
* Control your pet. If your does anything to annoy a neighbor, put a stop to it.
* Address any problems as soon as possible. Don’t let a little issue fester and become a roadblock to a good neighbor.
* Get to know your neighbors. Whether it’s having an occasional cup of coffee or throwing a block party together, you’ll find many of your neighbors are good friends too.